“Vishy Anand’s Timeless Wisdom: ‘Ignore the Noise’ as Gukesh Faces Rising Pressure”

Anand Urges Gukesh to “Ignore the Noise” Amid Rising Pressure and Criticism

Last Updated: April 22, 2026, 12:01 IST

In a pivotal moment for young chess prodigy D Gukesh, former world champion Viswanathan Anand has stepped in with sage advice: “ignore the noise.” As Gukesh grapples with a dip in form and increasing scrutiny, Anand’s words resonate deeply, reminding the reigning world champion that results are what truly matter.

Gukesh, who made history in December 2024 by becoming the youngest chess world champion, now finds himself under the spotlight for all the wrong reasons. Following a significant drop in performance, including a loss of approximately 51 rating points, the pressure has intensified, especially with the emergence of Uzbek sensation Javokhir Sindarov, who recently claimed victory in the Candidates tournament.

Anand, a five-time world champion, understands the weight of expectations all too well. In a recent interview with Lichess, he emphasized the importance of focusing on personal growth rather than external criticism. “What you can learn is to focus on what you can do… just ignore it,” he advised. He acknowledged that feeling bothered by criticism is a normal part of the journey, stating, “Nobody promised you perfect happiness.”

The scrutiny surrounding Gukesh has not been subtle. Chess legends like Magnus Carlsen and Garry Kasparov have pointed to Sindarov’s impressive form, suggesting he may even be the favorite in their upcoming title clash. Carlsen, in particular, has been vocal about Gukesh’s “very obvious weaknesses,” adding to the mounting pressure on the young champion.

However, Anand offers a different perspective. “Everyone will look at you differently, and everyone secretly covets your title,” he remarked, reinforcing the idea that criticism is an inherent part of being at the top. He also urged Gukesh to cherish the experience of being a champion, noting, “You will not appreciate the world championship till you lose it… then you’ll suddenly think, ‘Did I really complain about these things?’”

As Gukesh prepares to face Sindarov later this year in what promises to be the youngest World Championship match in history, Anand’s advice rings true: “Nothing answers every doubt expressed about you like a good result.”

With the chess world watching closely, Gukesh has a chance to silence his critics and reaffirm his status as a champion. The upcoming match could redefine his legacy and serve as a testament to the resilience that Anand so passionately advocates.